Ski touring requires a solid knowledge of the mountains. Depending on the location chosen, the level of difficulty and avalanche risk can vary considerably. To stay safe, you must choose a spot suited to your level. Explore the must-visit destinations for ski touring.
Key takeaways:
- Resorts offer waymarked ski touring routes suitable for beginners.
- Remote mountain ranges are reserved for skiers with solid experience.
- Every outing must be planned in advance to avoid unnecessary risk.
Getting started safely: waymarked resort routes
No discussion of ski touring is complete without mentioning Arêches-Beaufort, in Savoie. For over 30 years, the resort has hosted the famous ski mountaineering race Pierra Menta. In total, four permanent routes, known as "Traces" and colour-coded by difficulty, are on offer. For those starting out in ski touring, the Trace Verte is ideal, with 1.5 km and 310 m of positive elevation gain.
Another Savoyard resort, Val Thorens guarantees good snow cover thanks to its high altitude, making it the highest resort in Europe. On the ski touring side, it offers five waymarked routes with exceptional views. La Camille is particularly popular with beginners, covering 1.9 km with 235 m of positive elevation gain.
For skiers looking for a more welcoming and accessible resort, La Clusaz, in Haute-Savoie, is a great option. The resort offers two waymarked ski touring routes: the Beauregard trail (5 km and 600 m D+) and the Massif de l'Étale trail (4 km and 700 m D+).
Unlike the Alps, ski touring is less structured and waymarked in the Pyrenees. However, it is possible to get started at Gourette, in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques. A freely accessible route connects the Cotch chairlift to the locality of Fontaines de Cotch. Its four sections can be completed in sequence or individually, for a total of 4.5 km and 730 m of positive elevation gain.
For experienced skiers: accessible remote ranges
For more experienced athletes with solid ski touring physical preparation, remote mountain ranges are often more appealing. In the Southern Alps, the Queyras is highly sought after. A host of routes are accessible from Arvieux-Brunissard, Abriès and Saint-Véran, among others.
Still in the Southern Alps, the Mercantour offers more technical terrain. For experienced skiers, the Madone de Fenestre refuge is the starting point for numerous routes such as the Balcon du Gélas, the Tour du Gélas and Caïre Cabret. These remarkably unspoilt locations offer stunning views over the highest summits of the Mercantour.
Located in the Northern Alps, La Vanoise is a vast playground for skiers. You will find a huge number of routes with varying elevation gains — between 300 and 1,000 m — and distances generally ranging from 5 to 12 km depending on the route. The classic Col de la Vanoise route takes you through remarkably unspoilt natural surroundings.
The Fiz massif is another highly popular option. Its breathtaking scenery offers glimpses of the Mont-White massif. Again, several routes are available to skiers, with elevation gains ranging from 700 to 1,200 m. Starting points include Plaine-Joux and Servoz.
Finally, skiers in search of natural terrain with no nearby infrastructure can head to the Pyrénées Ariégeoises. Several routes are available here too, including one with 750 m of positive elevation gain starting from the Laparan dam and up to the Col du Riutort.
Choosing the right place to go ski touring
Before choosing where to go ski touring, there are several essential habits to adopt. First, check the snow conditions, read the avalanche bulletin (BRA) and check the weather forecast. Before heading out, also make sure you have all your safety equipment in addition to your ski touring kit.
Choose a route suited to your level. Research the elevation gain and technical challenges. If you are a beginner or intermediate, opt for straightforward terrain with open areas, wide valleys and uniform slopes. Also make sure you can easily access the starting point.
Before you set off, always have a Plan B. Choose a similar but shorter route as a fallback in case of trouble. Don't hesitate to check specialist forums or local hiking groups for up-to-date information on trail conditions.
Your level, expectations and location should guide you in deciding where to go ski touring. By choosing routes suited to your ability and carefully planning each outing, you will make the most of the mountains safely.
Photo credits: Grégoire Fauquenoi
